August 26, 2022 | Photography by Anna Urban Photography
Sarah and Jake first met in a high school math classroom when they were seated next to each other alphabetically as sophomores. It wasn’t until a few years later, following their freshman year of college, that they started dating and fell in love. However, Sarah was in nursing school in Kentucky and Jake was still living in Illinois, so he made the seven-hour drive every weekend to see her. After finishing school, Sarah returned home, and during a hike in Devil’s Lake State Park, Jake arranged a surprise: their friends and family were present as he got down on one knee and proposed.
When it came to planning the wedding, Sarah said she wanted something that felt “in between a destination wedding and a local wedding,” so they chose Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, choosing an outdoor ceremony overlooking the resort’s beautiful golf course, and a reception in the ski chalet. Sarah wore a sleeveless lace gown with a dramatic fishtail train and an elegant, matching cathedral veil. Jake wore a classic navy three-piece suit with a white tie. Bridesmaids donned gowns of sage and carried bouquets of white, pale pink and coral roses.
The ceremony featured live music by Guy McGuinniss. Following the vow exchange, guests snacked on Chicago-favorite Garrett’s popcorn during the cocktail hour, and then dined on chicken, steak and salmon while enjoying live music by country artist Dan Lepien. After the plates were cleared, the party continued into the night as the newly married couple and their friends took pictures in the photo booth and hit the dance floor. “It was the perfect mix of rustic yet elegant,” Sarah said.
THE DETAILS
CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE: Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING RINGS: Rolland’s, Libertyville, Illinois
VIDEOGRAPHER: Allan Nino
BRIDEʼS GOWN: Madison James Allure Bridal via Here Comes the Bride
BRIDEʼS SHOES: Badgley Mischka
BRIDEʼS EARRINGS: GlamourBride USA via Etsy
BRIDEMAIDSʼ DRESSES: Azazie
GROOMʼS FORMALWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse
GROOMSMENʼS FORMALWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse
HAIR: Emily Herman and Danielle Kaplan, Hair by Emily Herman
MAKEUP: Beauticianzillas
INVITATIONS & STATIONERY: Minted
FLORAL: Avenue Bloom
CATERING & MENU: Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
CAKE & SWEETS: Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
ENTERTAINMENT: Live music for ceremony by Guy McGuinnis; live music for cocktails and dinner by Dan Lepien; reception DJ: Ryan Runnion of MC Pro DJ
PHOTO BOOTH: Sweet Pea Photo Booth
TRANSPORTATION: Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
